City officials have proposed a budget amendment aimed at increasing community funding following public calls for greater neighborhood investment. The amendment, set for a vote today, focuses on allocating resources to improve local services and address residents’ priorities identified during this year’s budgeting process.
As per a City of Milwaukee release, one major component of the proposal is expanded support for public libraries. The plan includes extending hours and opening two additional branches—the Martin Luther King Jr. Branch and the Mitchell Street Branch—on Sundays. The initiative builds on existing funding to strengthen library access and services across the city.
The amendment also targets housing stability, with nearly $1 million allocated to homeownership and eviction prevention programs. This includes additional support for the Milwaukee Home Down Payment Assistance Program, aimed at helping more residents achieve stable housing.
Provisions for city employees are also included, with a proposed 2% salary increase for general city workers who live in Milwaukee. This would be added to the wage adjustments previously outlined in the mayor’s budget proposal.
The amendment reflects priorities identified through public input and aims to direct funding toward libraries, housing support, and workforce investment as part of the city’s 2025 budget planning.
